Sterling, Virginia to Washington DC: Road Trip Guide & Distance

22.1 miles 35.6 km · straight line
29.8 miles actual route 47.9 km · driving distance
44min estimated drive time
$3 - $4 estimated fuel cost
~33min flight time · usually no direct flights
108° ESE bearing direction

How far is Sterling, Virginia from Washington DC?

The distance from Sterling, Virginia to Washington DC is 22.1 miles (35.6 km) as the crow flies. Washington DC is located ESE of Sterling, Virginia. By car, the driving distance is approximately 29.8 miles, taking about 44min. A direct flight would take roughly 33min. Both are located in United States — Sterling, Virginia in Virginia and Washington DC in District of Columbia.

This is a very short trip, perfect for a quick morning drive or an easy commute. Heading East means you'll be driving into the sunrise if you start early. Keep your windshield clean for the best visibility. Given the short distance, driving or taking a train is often faster and more convenient than dealing with airport security and flight boarding times.

Coordinates come from public place data for Sterling, Virginia and Washington DC. The driving distance uses an OSRM road-route result when route data is available. Fuel, flight, bus, and train values are planning estimates and can change by date, provider, road closures, and border rules.

How to Get from Sterling, Virginia to Washington DC

Method Time Est. Cost Best For
Drive 44min $3 - $4 Flexible stops

Suggested Stops Between Sterling, Virginia & Washington DC

Quick Facts

Sterling, Virginia
39.01°N, 77.43°W
America/New_York
89m elevation
Washington DC
38.91°N, 77.04°W
America/New_York
7m elevation
Explore more routes from Washington DC

Did You Know?

  • At walking speed (3 mph), it would take about 7 hours of non-stop walking
  • By bicycle at 12 mph, the journey would take roughly 2 hours
Data Sources & Estimate Notes GeoNames · OpenStreetMap · OSRM